News

The freedom to make mistakes
Thu, Jan 10 2008

Most people would not think that the ability to make their own mistakes is a freedom.

Most people are not Dennis and Janet.

Dennis and Janet are great examples of how people with disabilities can live life their way.

Now married, they live happily – and independently – in Sunshine, with only three hours of support each week for tasks like shopping and attending appointments.

Both have lived with family, in an institution, and in a shared house. Twelve years ago they started in our outreach and transition program - developed with the dream of supporting people so they could grow to true independence.

Gradually, the couple learned to cook, clean, shop, problem solve, find out answers by themselves, manage their time, communicate well, socialise – and make mistakes.

“Independence means we can make our own choices,” said Dennis. “We can go out when we want to; we can have privacy. We don’t have to share all our possessions.”